Avoid colds or flu this winter!

Even if you enjoy being cosy after the summer season, there are some things that winter brings that no one likes – colds and flu!

Unfortunately, like many Melburnians who like the cooler weather, so does the flu virus! It can live in the air longer when it is cold and dry, which means we are more at risk of catching it.

But getting sick does not have to be an inevitable part of your winter. Here are my top tips for staying healthy through the coldest months.

Tip one: Get a flu shot

This is the best thing you can do to prevent flu. It will keep you safe and help keep those around you safe too. You can get vaccinated against the flu at our health centres for free. Just call us on (03) 8470 1111 to book an appointment with one of the nurses.

Tip two: Learn how to wash your hands properly

You need to do this all year round, but it is more important when there are lots of germs in the air, or you have come in contact with people who are sick. It may sound silly, but many of us do not actually know how to wash our hands properly, or as well as we should. A quick rinse under the tap will not cut it. You need to:

• Use soap and water
• Rub vigorously for at least 20 seconds – getting soap between you fingers and all over your hands and under your nails
• Rinse well
• And dry your hands with a clean towel or air dryer.

A good tip for getting children to wash their hands properly, is to sing a song like this one, or to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice. Or if teens or adults need a little more guidance, there is this song by One Republic!

Tip three: Keep hand sanitiser with you

Washing with soap is enough to keep your hands clean, but in case you are out and there is no soap in a public bathroom, carry an alcohol based hand sanitiser with you to use instead.

Tip four: Eat and drink healthily

We should all be doing this every day, but when our immune systems are low and we are more susceptible to germs, it is even more important. Lots of vegetables and fruit, and plenty of water are key. If you are not sure you are eating a balanced diet, or need some advice on how you can make small changes that will have a big impact on your health, we can help. Our doctors and nurses can give you advice, and if needed could refer you to one of our dietitians for support.

Tip five: Get enough rest and reduce stress

If you are tired and run down, you are more likely to pick up germs. This is true all year round. Whether it is quiet time with a good book and cup of tea, listening to music or watching a happy movie, make time to relax and reduce stress.

Tip six: Stay away from sick people

This is often easier said than done, especially if it is your nearest and dearest who are unwell. But avoiding close contact or touching people who are unwell will help prevent a virus spreading to you. For example, do not kiss or shake hands with people who are unwell.

Tip seven: Ask people to stay away from you!

If you are concerned that other people around you are unwell, you can politely ask them. Encourage your colleagues to be honest and to put everyone’s health and wellbeing before work!

We work hard to keep you safe from infection when you visit Your Community Health, but you can always ask us if we have washed our hands. If you think you have a cold or flu that you might spread to other people, let us know when you arrive and we can give you a face mask to wear.

If you want more information about staying healthy through winter, talk to your doctor or nurse. Don’t forget to book that flu vaccination today!